Knights have tough task in Wallace-Rose Hill

W. Curt Vincent Editor

October 3, 2013

DUBLIN — The West Bladen Knights, fresh off their first conference win in two years, will face perhaps their stiffest test on Friday when they travel to Teachey for a Four County Conference matchup with Wallace-Rose Hill.

The Bulldogs (4-1, 1-0) are in second place behind an undefeated Midway team, but they are far and away head-and-shoulders above the rest of the conference when it comes to statistics.

“They have probably the best offensive line we will see this season,” West Bladen coach Russell Dove said.

Wallace-Rose Hill operates its offense out of the Wing T, which the Knights have seen plenty of this season — both in practice and in games.

“That should help us,” Dove said. “But they run it very well.”

The Bulldogs’ line leads the way for running backs Alex Lisane, who has gained 351 yards on 48 carries with five touchdown; and Jalen Robinson, who has rushed for 309 yards and two touchdowns on 41 carries. A good chunk of that damage was done in a 70-0 route of Trask last week.

Wallace-Rose Hill has scored a conference-leading 202 points through its first five games.

But the Bulldogs don’t just try to outscore its opponents. They also have the conference’s stingiest defense, having given up just 19 points thus far this season. Wallace-Rose Hill is led on defense by nose tackle Kevin Carney and linebacker Roddric Newton.

“They are solid,” Dove said. “Execution will be a big key for us.”

Dove added that the 3-2, 1-0 Knights are hoping to get some players healthy for Friday’s game.

“We’ve got some kids who are banged up pretty good,” he said. “And while we want to do what’s best for them, we also want to be sure and do what’s best for us out there — as long as we don’t chance losing anyone for two or three weeks … or worse.”

Dove’s keys for getting a second straight conference win include blocking better on defense and getting back to swarming to the ball on defense.

“We also have to continue learning how to close out plays and games,” Dove said.